Tobacco Reform on the Senate Floor

Statement

Tobacco Reform on the Senate Floor

Posted by: Sen. Richard Burr

Today, the Senate is continuing debate on a bill that would give the FDA regulatory authority over the tobacco industry. I have been on the floor fighting this bill because if passed, it could do a lot more harm than good.

The bill we're debating would severely impede the FDA's core mission. Right now, the agency is responsible for ensuring food, drugs, medical devices and cosmetics are safe, effective and properly labeled. Adding tobacco to the list would stretch the FDA even more than it already is.

In order to achieve effective regulation of tobacco, the FDA is not our best option. This is why I proposed regulation under an agency in the Department of Health and Human Services responsible solely for tobacco and nothing else.

The substitute legislation I introduced would require every cigarette pack to carry larger warning labels and graphic depictions of mouth and lung cancer designed to deter children. These labels would include safety information, as well as a detailed list of ingredients. My legislation also sets ceilings for harmful toxins in cigarettes, creating a benchmark from which to work. We would also eliminate the use of terms such as "light," "low-tar," or any variation of those descriptors, including candy or fruit descriptors.

If we want to improve public health, we need to make sure consumers are informed about the risks associated with tobacco use, and do more to keep kids from lighting a cigarette. And for those Americans who are trying to quit, we need to at least offer them safer options. I will continue to fight against this bill and for a more effective, more efficient way to regulate tobacco.

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